The new second-generation Ford Raptor is more than 500 pounds lighter than the first-gen model thanks to its high-strength, aluminum alloy body and steel frame. In addition, the new Raptor comes with 3-inch FOX Racing Shox that provide 13-inches of suspension travel, which helps the Raptor excel in off-road situations.

2017 Ford Raptor at the Chicago Auto Show

When selecting their 2017 Truck of the Year, editors from AutoGuide.com evaluated each truck’s performance, innovation, and value, as well as how well each truck fulfilled the purpose for which it was intended. The other trucks included in these evaluations were the new Ford F-250, Nissan Titan, Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro, and Honda Ridgeline. The tests were conducted in Barstow, California.

In the end, the 2017 Ford Raptor earned the 2017 AutoGuide.com Truck of the Year award thanks to its incredible off-road capabilities and impressive technology. Each new Ford Raptor is powered by an all-new 3.5-liter twin-turbo V8 engine good for 450 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque. That powerful motor works with a new 10-speed automatic transmission that helps the truck earn up to 18 mpg on the highway. In addition, the Raptor comes standard with a new four-wheel drive system, which is complete with a torque-on-demand transfer case.

“The 2017 Raptor is the whole package. It’s not just suspension or just appearance. Ford left no stone unturned with this purpose-built Baja runner, and it shows,” said Stephen Elmer, AutoGuide.com trucks editor. “While each truck in this year’s competition brings something to the table, the Raptor feels truly special, managing to provide a truck that is capable, intelligent, and most of all, a riotous amount of fun.”